Under the Economic Development Department’s Commercial Stabilization Program, the Souly Austin Business District Incubator aims to support the creation and retention of stable, organized commercial districts through the formation of merchants associations.

Souly Austin is a program of the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department that provides a flexible set of tools and resources to assist in the formation of merchants associations that will anchor Austin’s business districts. The program is designed to promote and support businesses of all sizes and types within the city’s commercial areas and corridors.

A merchants association is a group of business owners that exist to anchor and stabilize neighboring businesses around beautification efforts, marketing and promotions, business retention, and economic development activities within a commercial district. Merchants associations act as a unified voice and assist in leading and influencing positive changes in their district.

Vibrant commercial districts offer a range of businesses and services that reflect a unique culture, provide amenities to the community, and foster different characteristics and personalities that further contribute to the distinctive identity that makes Austin a destination.